What does the “Sort” function do in Excel?

The "Sort" function in Excel is used to organize data in a specific order, either ascending or descending, according to selected criteria. This functionality allows users to rearrange data, making it easier to analyze and interpret information. For example, numerical values can be sorted from lowest to highest, or text entries can be arranged alphabetically. By selecting which column to sort on and specifying the order, users can quickly modify the presentation of data to suit their needs, improving clarity and facilitating further analysis.

This clear organization helps users to identify trends, patterns, or exceptions in the data, enhancing decision-making and reporting processes. The "Sort" function is particularly useful in datasets where order is significant, such as when reviewing sales data by date or student names in an alphabetized list.